Shrimp Succotash

Terrific for a first course or a side dish, this recipe is adapted from the lobster succotash at Kinkead's in Washington, D.C. Chef Bob Kinkead's original uses chunks of lobster, which can be substituted for the large shrimp called for here.

Add beans to shrimp cooking liquid. Cover and simmer until beans are tender and liquid is reduced to 1/2 cup, adding more water if necessary, about 40 minutes. Discard bay leaf and celery. (Shrimp and beans can be made 1 day ahead. Cover separately and chill.)

Cook bacon in large skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 5 minutes. Drain bacon on paper towels. Cut into small pieces. Discard all but 1 teaspoon drippings in skillet. Add chopped onion; sauté over medium-low heat until golden, about 10 minutes. Add corn and beans with their cooking liquid; simmer until corn is tender, about 8 minutes. Add shrimp and bacon; stir until heated through, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with chives.